In a recent Q&A session, Dr. Shae Datta, a sports health neurologist and co-director of the NYU Langone Concussion Center, addressed concerns and provided valuable insights into assessing and treating concussions. With an estimated 3.8 million concussions occurring annually in outdoor activities and competitive sports, the importance of recognizing and seeking appropriate care for these traumatic brain injuries cannot be overstated.

Concussions, which can result from various events such as falls, car accidents, or impacts during sports, can lead to serious and lasting neurological issues if not managed properly. While most concussions have temporary symptoms that resolve within a few weeks, approximately 50% of these injuries go unreported, emphasizing the need for increased awareness.

The most common symptoms of concussions include headaches, fatigue, vision changes, balance issues, confusion, dizziness, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. While these symptoms typically subside within 10 to 14 days, some individuals may experience symptoms for weeks or longer, making immediate management crucial to prevent lasting effects on cognition and memory.

Treatment plans for concussions vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. In many cases, symptoms improve within three months, but for those who don't respond to rest and rehabilitation, medications may be prescribed. The NYU Langone Concussion Center adopts a multidisciplinary approach, involving neurology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation, to deliver specialized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.

To ensure a safe return to physical activity, it is essential to ensure that all symptoms have completely resolved before resuming practice or play. Sports health specialists, including trained neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and physiatrists, employ specific concussion assessment protocols to clear athletes for return. The Concussion Center collaborates closely with athletic directors and coaches to facilitate early identification and address symptoms promptly.

To further assess the severity of a concussion, a focused neurological and physical examination is conducted. If necessary, imaging such as a CT scan or an MRI may be performed to rule out more severe traumatic brain injuries.

The importance of reporting and treating concussions promptly cannot be emphasized enough. While the long-term effects of repeated head impacts, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy, are not fully understood, reporting and treating concussions swiftly can help prevent lasting damage. Dr. Shae Datta advises individuals to "sit them out" when in doubt and seek appropriate medical care.

In terms of recovery, low-level exercise within 48 hours of the injury has been shown to aid faster recuperation. Rehabilitation therapists and physicians play a pivotal role in assessing an athlete's readiness to return to their sport. If an individual can run without impairment and maintain their target heart rate for at least 20 minutes for two to three consecutive days, it is a strong indication of recovery and a safe return to play. Athletes who experience post-concussive symptoms should only resume their sport once these symptoms have completely resolved.

Dr. Shae Datta's expertise and research in the field of concussion and brain trauma make her an invaluable resource in the field. As the co-director of the NYU Langone Concussion Center, she continues to contribute to advancements in understanding the correlation between brain injury and conditions such as memory loss and early Alzheimer's disease.

Concussions are a serious concern, and timely assessment and treatment are crucial. By following expert advice and seeking appropriate care, individuals can ensure a safer and more effective recovery from concussions, preventing potential long-term consequences.